THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE PROJECT

Who We Are and
What We Stand For.

Lanka Roots is deeply personal. We want to share that story with you. The beliefs that brought us together shape every decision we make and every part of this project.

Why This Is Personal

Born in Germany to a family that fled Sri Lanka during the civil war, Mythili grew up with a deep connection to the country her parents once had to leave behind. Her parents always believed that education is the most reliable path to independence and a better future. Despite many challenges, they gave their children every opportunity they could, a belief that continues to shape Mythili’s path today.

Sujan’s story begins in Trincomalee. After leaving Sri Lanka as a child, he grew up and studied in the United Kingdom before building his career abroad. Years later, he decided to return to his hometown with a clear purpose: to invest in his community and create opportunities for young people who deserve the same chances he once had to seek elsewhere.

Together we share a simple conviction. Talent exists everywhere. What is often missing are the structures and pathways that allow it to grow. Lanka Roots was created to help build those pathways.

Lanka Roots Team

Mythili Smith

CEO

Studied International Business in Upstate New York and works as a flight attendant for Lufthansa. As the founder of Lanka Roots, she brings together international networks and local communities in Sri Lanka, leading the project’s vision, strategy and development.

Sujan Sribalakrishnan

COO

Originally from Trincomalee, Sujan studied in the United Kingdom and holds a degree in Business Computing. After several years abroad, he returned to his hometown where he now runs three successful restaurants and leads local operations for Lanka Roots.

Anette Christoph

Co-Founder

Former President of Ladies Circle Germany and experienced Chief Assistant with a corporate background. As treasurer, she oversees the financial and legal foundation of Lanka Roots in Germany, ensuring the association operates with integrity and transparency.

Anna-Lena Krohn

Co-Founder

Product manager with a background in design thinking and strategic innovation management. Anna shapes strategy, communications, and partnerships to connect Lanka Roots with the world.

Our Values

The principles that guide everything we do.

01

Dignity Through Education

Education is at the heart of our work. We don't believe people fail, structures fail. Our task is to open pathways that support people in realising their own potential.

02

Partnership at Eye Level

We work as equals alongside local communities, partner organisations, students, and businesses. Our collaboration is built on respect, trust, and the shared goal of creating something that lasts.

03

Integrity and Transparency

Integrity shapes everything we do. We work transparently, use resources responsibly, and are accountable to every organisation and individual who places their trust in us.

04

Built to Last, Designed to Scale

Our initiative is designed to sustain itself over the long term. It creates economic opportunities locally, strengthens existing structures, and generates impact that reaches beyond Lanka Roots. We are committed to responsible stewardship of natural resources.

Who We Are and What We Stand For.